Descriptions

A multi-phase methodology is proposed as an aid to
resource planning and management activities in a high
technology company faced with an uncertain marketing
future. An attempt is made to incorporate both quantifiable
and non-quantifiable factors.
The problem analysis phase of the proposed methodology
employs Resource Planning and Management (RPM) network as
a graphical representation of quantifiable relationships
within the physical process operated by the company. Simple
linear relationships between 100 resources and 92 processes
lead to a linear programming (LP) model which was solved on
a CDC-3300 computer. The results were compared against the
actual production schedule for the period from which the
original data were obtained.
The decision analysis phase adapts the LP model to
incorporate forecasted demands for the next production
period. Information generated from the LP model is used to
identify the potential resource bottlenecks.
The potential problem analysis phase considers the
problem under uncertainty. A game theory payoff matrix is
developed to estimate the effects of bottlenecks under a
set of scenarios describing possible future conditions and
for a given set of management alternatives.
Hurwicz, Savage, and Wald criteria from game theory
and nine choice rules advocated by Easton are described.
These techniques aid the management in bridging the gap
between the quantified values in the payoff matrices and
the subjective preferences imposed by the decision maker.
The proposed methodology is applied to the operation
of a plant manufacturing accessories to precision doctrine
instruments. Profitability, labor stabilization, and rate
of return were used as three objectives evaluated under
three marketing scenarios.